6 of the Best Android 12 Features
Robert Cerff / 21-12-2021 / News & Tips
Earlier this year, Google announced its Android 12 software update. Following months of continued upgrades and added features, the update will soon roll out to billions of Android devices across the globe.
All eligible Google Pixel phones were the first to receive the update followed by the Samsung Galaxy S21 series. However, other manufacturers won’t have the new OS in their flagships until mid-December at the earliest and older models may have to wait until mid-2022.
Although not everyone can download Android 12 immediately, it’s worth checking out some of the impressive improvements you can enjoy in the next few months.
1. Privacy Dashboard Monitors Apps
The new Privacy Dashboard screen is a central spot to see what permissions your apps are granted, such as your contact list or location. It details how often these apps access your information and shows you which ones are taking advantage of your settings.
2. Cut-Off Access to Your Camera and Mic
Android 12 has new shortcut buttons in the quick menu that allow you to cut-off an app’s access to your camera and microphone. This can be done for all your apps at once.
What’s more, when using your camera or mic, a little green dot will pop up on your screen, and you will be able to see which app is collecting your information in real-time.
Tip: When you first launch an app that wants to access your location, you can permit it to only receive an approximate location rather than your precise address.
3. Colour Coordinated Interface
Android 12 has adopted a new design language called Material You, enabling you to customise themes like never before. You will soon be able to choose the background colours of your phone based on the colours on your wallpaper, or even select a complementary shade instead.
4. Share Wi-Fi Details Easily
Thanks to the upgrade, you’ll soon be able to wirelessly share your details with those in the same room as you, using the new ‘Nearby’ button. When you switch it on, your smartphone will look for devices close by and send your details to the chosen devices.
5. Scrolling Screenshot Has Arrived
The new update welcomes the much-needed scrolling screenshot for capturing so much more than what’s on your screen at the time. You can now screenshot long web pages or documents, including the parts hidden below the screen. All you have to do is choose the “capture more” option to ensure your screenshots contain all the relevant information you need.
6. Mobile Games Go Live
Android 12 has a Game Dashboard that you can access while you're gaming by creating a shortcut. You will have quick access to optimisation tools, current frame rates and you can even show off your skills by broadcasting your gameplay on YouTube Live!
Google has hit refresh with its new update and unlocked innovative customisation settings, enhanced privacy capabilities and handy improvements to an already high-performing operating system. If you’re on the market for a new smartphone that will seamlessly integrate with Android 12, check out these mobile deals.